Fluoxetine®
Fluoxetine (generic) 20
mg - 30 Capsules
Fluoxetine Drug Uses
Fluoxetine is a drug used medically in the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and many
other disorders. It is a psychotropic drug for oral administration.
How
Taken Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine usually is taken once or twice a day. To be effective, it
should be taken regularly. Make a habit of taking it at the same time
you do some other daily activity. It may be 4 weeks before you feel any
relief from your depression, but the drug's effects should last about
9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen. For obsessive-compulsive
disorder, the full effect may take 5 weeks to appear.
Warnings/Precautions Fluoxetine
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication
if you are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease
or diabetes. Fluoxetine may cause you to become drowsy or less alert
and may affect your judgment. Therefore, driving or operating dangerous
machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires
full mental alertness is not recommended. While taking this medication,
you may feel dizzy or light-headed or actually faint when getting
up from a lying or sitting position. If getting up slowly doesn't
help or if this problem continues, notify your doctor. If you develop
a skin rash or hives while taking Fluoxetine, discontinue use of
the medication and notify your doctor immediately. Fluoxetine should
be used with caution if you have a history of seizures. You should
discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking
this medication. Fluoxetine can occasionally cause decreased appetite
and weight loss, especially in depressed people who are already underweight
and in those with bulimia. If you notice changes in your weight or
appetite, tell your doctor. The effects of Fluoxetine during pregnancy
have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to
become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This medication
appears in breast milk, and breastfeeding is not recommended while
you are taking Fluoxetine.
Missed
Dose Fluoxetine
If you miss a dose of Fluoxetine and you remember the same day, take
it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip
the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take
2 doses at once.
Possible
Side Effects Fluoxetine
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Fluoxetine. More common side
effects may include: Abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation, abnormal
vision, anxiety, diminished sex drive, dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like
symptoms, flushing, gas, headache, impotence, insomnia, itching, loss
of appetite, nausea, nervousness, rash, sinusitis, sleepiness, sore throat,
sweating, tremors, upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, yawning. Less common
side effects may include: Abnormal taste, agitation, bleeding problems,
chills, confusion, ear pain, emotional instability, fever, frequent urination,
high blood pressure, increased appetite, loss of memory, palpitations,
ringing in the ears, sleep disorders, weight gain. In children and adolescents,
less common side effects may also include: Agitation, excessive menstrual
bleeding, frequent urination, hyperactivity, mania or hypomania (inappropriate
feelings of elation and/or rapid thoughts), nosebleeds, personality changes,
and thirst. A wide variety of other very rare reactions have been reported
during Fluoxetine therapy. If you develop any new or unexplained symptoms,
tell your doctor without delay.
Storage Fluoxetine
Store in a dry place at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F).
Overdose Fluoxetine
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose
of Fluoxetine can be fatal. In addition, combining Fluoxetine with
certain other drugs can cause symptoms of overdose. If you suspect
an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Common symptoms
of Fluoxetine overdose include: Nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures,
sleepiness, vomiting. Other symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose include:
Coma, delirium, fainting, high fever, irregular heartbeat, low blood
pressure, mania, rigid muscles, sweating, stupor.
More
Information Fluoxetine
Do not take with MAO inhibitors or for at least two weeks after their
discontinuation. MAO inhibitors medications should not be taken for at
least five weeks after discontinuing Fluoxetine. Most medications affecting
the brain have the potential to slow reflexes or impair judgment and
caution is advised. This medication has not been studied extensively
in the US and re-evaluation periodically by your physician is advised.
Check with you pharmacist when taking with other medications.
Disclaimer Fluoxetine
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not
intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug
interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication.
This is only general information, and should not be relied on for
any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions
for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the
accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences
arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse
consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences
arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards
to this information.
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Allergy & Asthma
